It appears old friend Jonathan Freeny will take Rob Gronkowski's roster spot this week

FOXBORO -- The Patriots had to fill Rob Gronkowski's spot on the roster for this week and it appears they have filled it with a familiar face -- linebacker Jonathan Freeny.

According to multiple reports, Freeny was the new No. 44 at Patriots practice on Wednesday. The team likely needed to add a linebacker for depth with the injury to Kyle Van Noy and other front-seven players being banged up.

It is possible it's just for one week, as once Gronkowski comes back the team will need to release a player to make room on the roster.

Freeny is no stranger to New England as he was with the Patriots from 2015 until training camp this past summer. After being released by the Patriots, he spent time with the Ravens and Jaguars this season.